Fritillaria

Fritillaria

The Fritillarias have nodding, bell shaped flowers. Most take sun to partial shade, depending on which is grown. The preferred soil is well drained loam but any good garden soil will do. The bulbs have an unpleasant odor and are sometimes suggested for interplanting with other bulbs to repel rodents. A winter mulch is suggested. Remove faded flowers to prevent seed formation. Some fritllarias grow 3 to 4 feet tall. Once established they should not be disturbed.

Plant the bulbs 4 to 5 inches deep and 6 inches apart. Angle the bulb slightly sideways to keep water from collecting in the depression at the top of the bulb.

Divide dormant bulbs in autumn and replant immediately. The bulbs produce offshoots which can be used for propagation.